By using CHEF electrophoresis and resistogram typing, ST239-MRSA-III could be further classified into 2 subclones: Aus-2 EMRSA (susceptible to mercuric chloride and
phenylmercuric acetate) and Aus-3 EMRSA (resistant to mercuric chloride and
phenylmercuric acetate).
Samples can be stored over long periods under suitable conditions; extracts obtained with the previously described solution of potassium chloride and
phenylmercuric acetate can be stored for at least 3 weeks (Douglas and Bremner 1970a).
(3) Nonstandard abbreviations: (Me)6-MP(N), (methyl) 6-mercaptopurine (nucleotide); (Me)6-TIMP, (methyl) 6-thioinosine monophosphate; 6-TG(N), 6-thioguanine (nucleotide); RBC, red blood cell; TPMT, thiopurine S-methyltransferase; PMA,
phenylmercuric acetate; and DTT, dithiothreitol.
The specific paint brand used by the boy's family contained
phenylmercuric acetate at levels about 2.5 times higher than the EPA limit in effect at the time.
Editorial Note:
Phenylmercuric acetate is routinely added by some paint manufacturers to interior latex (water-based) paint as a fungicide and bactericide to prolong the paint's shelf-life.
Soberman contends that the form of mercury used in Ultra Latex,
phenylmercuric acetate, is not toxic and does not evaporate, so it cannot get into people's lungs.
